Sestertius - Elagabalus (LIBERTAS AVGVSTI S C; Libertas) (218-222) front Sestertius - Elagabalus (LIBERTAS AVGVSTI S C; Libertas) (218-222) back
Sestertius - Elagabalus (LIBERTAS AVGVSTI S C; Libertas) (218-222) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Sestertius - Elagabalus LIBERTAS AVGVSTI S C; Libertas

 
Bronze 20.7 g 30 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Elagabalus (Sextus Varius Avitus Basianus) (218-222)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
218-222
Value
Sestertius (⅛)
Currency
Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
20.7 g
Diameter
30 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#277043
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Libertas, draped, standing left, holding pileus in extended right hand and vertical sceptre in left hand; in field, star.

Script: Latin

Lettering: LIBERTAS AVGVSTI S C

Translation:
Libertas Augusti. Senatus Consultum.
Freedom of the emperor. Decree of the senate.

Comment

Mass varies: 19.63–21.42 g;
Diameter varies: 29–31 mm;

Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of Libertas, the Roman goddess of freedom, on its reverse side. This is significant because Elagabalus, the emperor who issued the coin, was known for his efforts to promote religious and cultural tolerance throughout the empire. The image of Libertas on the coin may have been a symbol of the emperor's commitment to preserving the rights and freedoms of the Roman people.